>> Click to enlarge << The Port Boca Grande Lighthouse, Gasparilla ... Photo by: John Kalandyk of Madison, CT.

Florida's Port Boca Grande Lighthouse may soon have a museum located in the historic building. If all goes according to plans the museum would be open for business in time for the 1999 tourist season.

>> Click to enlarge << Shown here is the Boca Grande Entrance Rear Range ... Photo by: C.E. Keith of Gasparilla Island, FL.

The State of Florida has recently approved a matching grant of $35,000 for the Port Boca Grande Lighthouse Museum and Interpretive Center - provided the Barrier Islands Parks Society can show that it has raised $83,200 or 60% of its stated budget of $138,000 for the museum project.

The 1890 lighthouse was automated in the early 1960's and fell into disrepair until it was taken over by the state of Florida in 1986.

Going to the lighthouse can be a little expensive since it will cost you over $3.00 to take the Boca Grande Causeway and an additional $2.00 to park at the State Park.

For additional information you can contact the Barrier Islands Park Society c/o Don Pedro Island State Recreation Area, P.O. Box 1150, Boca Grande, FL 33921 or by calling them at 941-964-0375.